Multi-Echo EPI performed on NexGen 7T scanner increases spatial resolution and shortens TE

Multi-echo (ME) EPI can increase BOLD sensitivity and reduce signal drop-out compared with standard gradient echo (GE) EPI, however spatial resolution and number of echo images are limited by the echo train length of each image. The powerful gradients on the NexGen 7T scanner allow for shorter echo spacing, and hence a greater number of echoes collected at high-resolution (1.6mm isotropic) as compared to standard 7T systems. ME-EPI collected at these resolutions can be separated into TE-dependent and TE-independent components using ME-ICA, showing promise for ME functional connectivity studies at 7T.